Iran's retailing structure remains very traditional

Iran's retailing structure remains very traditional

The Iranian economy continued to be isolated from international markets in 2015 and investment in the retailing industry remained low with only limited investment activity by multinational retailers. Consequently, independent wholesale stores continue to make up the largest proportion of the retailing landscape in Iran. That said, during 2015, it was agreed that sanctions would be lifted in January 2016, and as a result there has been an increase in investment and plans for investment by multinational retailers, a trend that is set to strengthen from 2016. The impact however is currently marginal and the retailing structure remains very traditional.